Celebrating 40 Years of Durham Habitat

January 7, 2025

In the early 1980s, groups from Watts Street Baptist Church led mission trips to build with Habitat for Humanity in Tennessee and Maryland. Inspired by this work and deeply concerned about the need for affordable homeownership opportunities in their own city, several group members began exploring the feasibility of founding a Habitat affiliate in Durham.

They took action by reaching out to Durham’s faith community and in October 1985, Durham Congregations in Action, an organization of 24 churches and faith communities, came together to officially found Habitat for Humanity of Durham. 

This year, we proudly celebrate our 40th anniversary. What began with the determination and commitment of a few volunteers has grown into a powerful force—fueled by our faith community, business community, and many dedicated supporters— for building homes, community, and hope in Durham.

In our 40 years of partnering with the Durham community, Durham Habitat has served thousands of local families through our homeownership program, critical repair work to preserve the area’s existing stock of affordable homes, and our education programs.

With your support we build stability and foster resilience in our shared community. Together, we’re creating a Durham where everyone has a decent place to live. Join us as we honor our legacy and build a brighter future for generations to come.

Find out more about how we’re celebrating impact and Forging Forward in our 40th year at durhamhabitat.org/anniversary